The Taoiseach says people are finding it difficult to understand how atrocities like the Russian invasion of Ukraine could happen in the 21st century.
Speaking in Cork yesterday Micheál Martin said the war in Ukraine is 'shocking' and like something that people might have experienced a hundred years ago.
He reiterated Ireland's support for Ukraine and said the 'unprecedented' sanctions imposed on Russia alongside worldwide condemnation were leaving the Kremlin increasingly isolated.
Russian aircraft have been banned from Irish airspace and the Taoiseach says Ireland will fall in line with the rest of Europe when it comes to whether or not to expel Russian diplomats.
Speaking to RedFM News, Taoiseach Micheál Martin says Ireland will always stand up for the rights of other countries.
"Fundamentally, this is about the upholding of universal principles of self determination, democracy, freedom of speech, free media. That's what this is about.
"We've never been slow to take sides on fundamental universal principles that are enshrined in the United Nations Charter, we're on the Security Council of the United Nations, that is our very strong view, and we will always defend those rights. And we have to be affirmative in that respect."
